Trump threatens to destroy Iran power plants if Strait of Hormuz not reopened in 48 hours

U.S. President Donald Trump issued a threat Saturday against Iran, demanding the complete reopening of the Strait of Hormuz within 48 hours or facing direct attacks on Iranian energy facilities.

In a post on Truth Social, Trump stated: "If Iran does not open completely, without threats, the Strait of Hormuz within 48 HOURS from this exact moment, the United States will attack and destroy its various power plants, beginning with the largest!"

The ultimatum comes amid escalating tensions between the United States and Iran over control of the strategic waterway. The Strait of Hormuz, a narrow passage between Iran and Oman, is critical to global energy commerce, with approximately one-third of seaborne oil passing through the chokepoint.

Trump did not specify which power plants would be targeted. Iran's largest hydroelectric complex is located on the Karun River, while the Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant, situated in the Persian Gulf in southwestern Iran, represents the country's largest nuclear facility. The sources indicate that thermal power plants would be more likely targets than nuclear installations due to escalation risks.

The threat follows earlier U.S. military action in the region. According to the sources, the United States weakened Iran's capacity in the strait after bombing an underground arsenal, though specific details of that operation were not provided.

The blockade of the Strait of Hormuz has significantly disrupted global oil traffic and elevated crude prices worldwide. The closure stems from the broader conflict between Iran and Israel, which has created tensions affecting maritime commerce in the Persian Gulf region.

Trump has sought support from regional allies in response to the situation, though the sources indicate no firm military commitments have been secured from partner nations at this time.